Thursday, April 21, 2011

Something that I find to be so inspiring is fashion that has a deeper purpose. More than simply adorning our bodies or providing a scent, brands are developing products that fuel change in the world. Donna Karan New York (DKNY) has as a newer perfume called pureDKNY that I just learned about when reading the latest issue of Marie Claire.

pureDKNY is made with vanilla from Uganda. Vanilla naturally grows in this country and with improvements in farming, it could become a source of economic change in a country that has suffered from war and turmoil. pureDKNY provides funding to CARE, a leading international humanitarian organization for their work with vanilla farmers. One of the best parts is that the purchase of the product is helping secure the livelihoods of the mostly female farmers (60% of vanilla farmers are women). So as you enjoy the scent of your new favorite perfume, you can feel good knowing that women and their children are benefiting from your purchase.

Model for pureDKNY, Angela Lindvall, in Uganda
Not only is the perfume itself a smart purchase, but you can rest assured knowing that even the packaging does a little bit of good. The box is made from certified forest paper, is from 100% renewable energy at a carbon neutral mill, is compost-able and is wrapped a biodegradable wrapping.

Who knew that you could feel this beautiful while making the world a better place?

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Though Black Swan's cinematic debut has long since passed, fashion seems to still be enamored with the world of ballet. In shades of white, cream and blush, styles seem to float down the runways with feminine touches of ruffles, tulle, bows and beading.

This Spring's couture collection from Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, has a heavy dose of stage-worthy romance in its many shades of pink.

Feathers suggest a pas de deux from Swan Lake in John Galliano's Spring 2011 couture collection for Christian Dior.

Leaving the soft and sweet shades of blush, fashion takes a turn for the darkside with its contrasts in black and white.

Oscar de la Renta Spring 2011 Couture

Jean Paul Gaultier Spring 2011 Couture

As with any great performance, fashion takes a bow in this gown by Jean Paul Gaultier that gathers in the style of a theatrical curtain.

Welcome to A Chichi Life

Search A Chichi Life

About Me

I created A Chichi Life as a creative outlet for me to explore fashion and its connection to art and history. I hope you find plenty of beauty and inspiration here, and of course a dash of chichi style.